News Release

Public Tips Help Identify Man

Larimer County Sheriff's Office
John Schulz, Public Information Officer

Thanks to tips from the public, Larimer County Sheriff's Office investigators have identified the man involved with attempting to pick up a 13-year-old Loveland girl earlier this week.

On Tuesday, May 21, 2013 Larimer County Sheriff's Office deputies received a report of a man who followed a 13-year-old Loveland girl in his car and asked her if she needed a ride. The girl immediately ran into Carrie Martin Elementary School to report the incident and the car sped off.

After receiving information from the public, investigators were able to identify the man as a nearby neighbor who thought he was being helpful. After speaking with the girl, her parents and the man, investigators determined that while the action caused the 13 year old concern, the gesture of offering a ride does not rise to the level of being criminal. Investigators do not believe that children in the area were in any danger.

Investigators commended the actions of the 13-year-old girl who immediately ran away from the vehicle and notified adults about the incident. All children should respond in the same manner if they are suspicious, even though later it may be determined not to be criminal in nature.

Parents should discuss abduction scenarios with their children and review regularly what they should do in case they are approached. Children should stay away from any vehicle unless they are sure they know the person. Parents should have a safety word known by them and the child to use if circumstances require another adult to pick up the child.